Volleyball spandex is as much a of the sport as the ball. Worn by starting juniors to Olympians and top rated pros. Its form fitting qualities and versatility makes
the players appear like superheros. Especially in a fast action sport that often uses the words attack, spike, joust and dig.
Volleyball spandex is as much a component of the game as the ball. Worn by beginning juniors to Olympians and top rated pros. Its form fitting qualities and flexibility can make the players seem like superheros. Particularly in a fast action game that constantly uses the words attack, spike, joust and dig.
Where did this miracle material come from? A couple of places actually. First spandex was invented in 1959 by chemist Joseph Shivers at DuPont’s laboratories in the US. Second, spandex is combined with other materials to produce the ultimate garment more versatile. Often spandex is as little as 10% of the final garment. When initially introduced, it revolutionized much of the apparel industry. The chemical make up makes shorts, shirts, jerseys and uniforms last for a longer period as it does not break down as quickly from exposure to sweat, body oils and sunscreen.
Spandex is a play on the word expands and is most commonly used in North America. Other locations of the world call it, and its slight variations, names including elastine, polyurethane, lycra and a variety of other names. The elasticity of spandex enables for it to expand up to seven times its length and return to its original shape while being stronger and more durable than rubber. The combining with other fabrics such as cotton and polyester makes it soft and comfortable.
All of this makes it an excellent choice for volleyball. The sport requires a player to make essential competitive moves such as jumping, spiking, digging, serving and blocking. A versatile garment lets the player concentrate on making a spectacular play while not worrying about their uniform binding, pinching, bunching or restricting their movements. By returning back to its original shape it ensures embarrassing mishaps don’t occur or players always readjusting their uniforms. By being comfortable, supple and a little slippery a player can move across the floor easier as they make a spectacular play. Spandex is additionally used in other sports including cycling and wrestling.
Within the volleyball world a few of the most favored brands are Mizuno and Asics. Mizuno is the official sponsor of the U.S. Olympic volleyball team. These are the brands of choice by Olympians and top pros as they wick moisture and sweat away keeping players dry and comfortable.
These brands and others can be found at vbvolleyball.com. The latest styles, colors and funky patterns are available for sale for you and your team. Customization is available for selected pieces to make you look like the volleyball spandex sporting rock star you are.
